Chief commissioning engineer, electrical

Job Description

Wärtsilä is an innovative technology company known for being a forerunner in the Marine and Energy markets. Every day, we - Wärtsilians - put our hearts and minds into turning Wärtsilä's purpose of enabling sustainable societies through innovation in technology and services into reality. Our ultimate aim is to provide increased value to both our customers and society. New, game-changing ideas and continuous improvement have been part of our DNA since 1834. Together, we can create new business opportunities and more sustainable future that we can all be proud of.

We want to transition the world towards a decarbonised and sustainable future. By pushing the boundaries of engineering and technology, we can make it work. We are always on the lookout for future-oriented talent - want to join the ride?

We are now looking for a Chief Commissioning Engineer, Electrical to join our team working for a better future.

This is a full-time, on-site position, and candidates may be based in Houston, Texas; Fort Lauderdale or Melbourne, Florida; Harvey, Louisiana; or Herndon, Virginia.

If you are an experienced electrical commissioning professional who enjoys hands-on site leadership, global project exposure, and the opportunity to contribute to complex power plant projects, this role offers a unique chance to make a direct impact while working with an international team. This position also offers a rotational schedule and assignment-related support that may include elements such as per diem/travel allowance, furnished accommodation during site assignments, project-arranged transportation, business travel insurance, and paid time off, depending on assignment type and applicable policy.

What You Will Be Doing

You will play a critical role in bringing Wärtsilä Energy projects to life by executing and overseeing electrical installation, testing, and commissioning activities for new-build power plants. Working within the Construction and Commissioning Services team, you will collaborate closely with civil, mechanical, and electrical stakeholders to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality project delivery. The role involves extensive global collaboration and hands-on site activities.

Responsibilities

During Installation

• Lead and support electrical installation activities on site, guiding subcontractors to deliver safe, high-quality work.
• Coordinate electrical activities with civil and mechanical teams to keep execution aligned and efficient.
• Review electrical designs, installation instructions, and delivered materials to ensure readiness, quality, and compliance.
• Drive compliance with HSSE requirements and safe working practices throughout installation activities.
• Support testing activities by ensuring approved methods, calibrated equipment, and accurate documentation of results.
• Monitor progress, maintain installation records, and ensure punch items and as-built information are properly managed through handover.
• Participate in site meetings and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to proactively resolve issues.

During Commissioning

• Execute and oversee start-up, testing, and commissioning activities for electrical systems within the contract scope.
• Follow commissioning plans and performance test procedures to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operation.
• Troubleshoot technical issues, document findings, and support timely resolution on site.
• Maintain strong HSSE standards and ensure the use of safe, approved, and calibrated testing practices during commissioning.
• Keep commissioning records, test results, punch items, and handover documentation accurate and up to date.
• Train and support operations personnel and assist customers during commissioning and testing activities.
• Work closely with the wider project team to deliver a smooth and successful plant handover.

Required Qualifications

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering.
• Hands-on experience performing electrical commissioning tasks.
• Knowledge of relevant electrical codes, standards, and testing practices.
• Understanding of utility-scale generation construction and commissioning.
• Strong HSSE awareness and ability to enforce safety standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in diverse, multicultural environments.
• Strong adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in English.
• Ability and willingness to travel internationally for extended periods (approx. 250 days/year).

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional languages beneficial (e.g., Spanish, Portuguese, Finnish).
• Experience with Wärtsilä equipment, energy storage systems, or engine power plants.
• Experience supervising subcontractors in global or remote project sites.
• Demonstrated competency in client-facing technical roles.
• Familiarity with the Last Planner System or lean construction methodologies.

Work Schedule

This role follows a rotating schedule of three months of work followed by 10 days of paid time off. Depending on assignment type and applicable policy, site assignments may also include support such as daily per diem/travel allowance, furnished accommodation, and project-arranged transportation.

Travel Requirements

In this role, international travel is required. Expect approximately 250 days per year working on-site abroad. Wärtsilä travel materials also indicate that business travel is managed under applicable travel policy and travel insurance coverage, and that energy/project personnel may travel under dedicated travel arrangements for energy-related work.

Candidates for regular U.S and Puerto Rico positions must be a U.S. citizen, national, or an alien admitted as permanent resident, refugee, asylee with valid work permit or temporary resident under 8 U.S.C. 1160(a) or 1255a(1). Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H1B, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Travel Requirements: This position requires a 100% travel commitment, encompassing both domestic and international, including onshore and offshore locations. The role demands adaptability to varying travel demands, with an expectation of extended periods away from the primary work location. Prospective candidates should be prepared to fulfill these travel obligations as an integral aspect of the position's responsibilities.

Individuals hired for positions that require on-site customer interactions and/or in-person travel may be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or other country-specific vaccinations, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

Wärtsilä North America values our employees. We offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Wärtsilä North America is an EOE/AA employer.

At Wärtsilä we value, respect and embrace all our differences, and are committed to diversity, inclusion and equal employment opportunities; everyone can be their true self and succeed based on their job-relevant merits and abilities.

Please note that according to Wärtsilä policy, voluntary consent for a security check may be required from candidates being considered for this position, depending on the applicable country.